Reds’ Manager David Bell Confirms Another Setback as Veteran Star Antone Faces Additional Elbow Surgery
The Cincinnati Reds received troubling news as manager David Bell disclosed further setbacks in the wake of losing another key player. Tejay Antone, the experienced reliever, is set to undergo elbow surgery, marking another chapter in his injury-laden journey, mere months after his return from a second Tommy John repair.
Antone’s latest setback unfolded dramatically during Sunday’s game, where he exited after delivering just one pitch against the Mets. Bell informed reporters on Tuesday about Antone’s impending surgery, revealing that the pitcher had suffered a partially torn ligament, which had also torn off the bone, as reported by Gordon Wittenmyer of the Cincinnati Enquirer.
The unfortunate incident against the Mets compounded the woes for Antone, who had previously undergone Tommy John surgery twice, first in 2017 and then again in 2021. Despite his return to the mound last September, he faced another setback due to elbow soreness, sidelining him once more.
Teammate Brent Suter expressed heartfelt empathy, recalling the anguish of witnessing Antone’s injury on the field. “I was actually there when he snapped it the second time in Milwaukee, and that was heart-wrenching even from the other side. Now he’s my teammate and close friend on the team, and for him to go down like that, it’s just gut-wrenching,” Suter shared with reporters following the game.
The 30-year-old Antone’s career has been marred by recurring injuries, despite showing promise on the mound. His recent performances this season with the Reds, albeit limited, reflected his resilience. Over a span of four relief appearances, he managed to strike out two batters but struggled with control, issuing four walks and allowing two runs.
Originally drafted by the Reds in 2014 from Weatherford College in Texas, Antone’s journey has been fraught with setbacks and challenges. His absence from the roster will be felt keenly, prompting the Reds to call up Carson Spiers, a 26-year-old right-handed pitcher, to fill the void left by Antone.
As Antone prepares for another arduous journey of recovery, the Reds face the challenge of navigating the season without one of their key assets, hoping for a swift and successful return for the resilient pitcher.
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